KENYA: Grief and anger as mourners reject DP Kindiki's speech at burial

By Brian Kimani

 Published on: November 23, 2024 08:06 (EAT)

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in Saku, Marsabit County, on May 10, 2024. PHOTO| COURTESY | MINA

A tense situation unfolded during the funeral service of late nominated MCA Mark Gicheru Wainaina in Murang'a on Saturday after mourners rejected Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's condolence message.  

The incident ensued after Murang'a governor Irungu Kang'ata called a representative to read Kindiki's message to the family and congregation in attendance. 

It is custom for the president and his deputy to send condolence messages to be read to the crowd if they are not in attendance. 

The representative was, however, unable to complete the first sentence of the message as the crowd began booing, a clear indication of their disaffection over the matter. 

"This is to the family of our departed colleagues. To the great people of Murang'a. Let us listen," he said amid a series of boos from the mourners. 

The clergy, who were moderating the service, intervened and instructed Kindiki's speech to be delivered to the family to maintain peace. 

Sensing the mood of the crowd, Kang'ata also followed suit and handed over President William Ruto's speech to the family, with the crowd applauding his move. 

During the service, Moses Kuria, senior economic advisor to President William Ruto, was unable to complete his speech after he engaged in political matters, much to the chagrin of the crowd. 

The priest presiding over the service resorted to leading a worship hymn to cut off Kuria from proceeding with his speech. 

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